Introduction

This short chapter introduces the aims of this book and explains the applications first, explanations second approach used in the text. Key themes that recur throughout such as manipulation of material properties, sustainability and specific properties are highlighted. A brief indication of what is in each chapter is included. Finally, the fact that this book won’t make you a materials expert but will make you better at communicating with materials experts and asking them the important questions is emphasised along with the various pointers to how to find out more information included at the end of each chapter.